Phormium tenax

Phormium tenax Details

Phormium tenax, commonly known as flax or harakeke, is an herbaceous perennial that produces erect, green, sword-like leaves. The leaves on this NZ native are held with an erect nature. Stems rise above the foliage in summer to bear twisted looking flowers that result in black seed pods in autumn. The nectar produced by the flowers attracts both birds and butterflies. Harakeke grows as a clump to about 2 m tall and the same wide, performing best when planted in full sun on a well-drained site. It is tolerant of frost, wind, coastal environments, and most soil conditions, except extreme wet or dry. NZ Flax is commonly added to a mixed planting, planted along the edges of water features, used in coastal gardens, or included in riparian plantings. Phormium tenax is a popular landscape option is also often used to contrast with other plant colours. A mass planting on bank not only provides an outstanding display but is great for helping to stabilise the soil. The seed is used to make the popular, Linseed Oil.